Each year, Border Bank selects three employees to receive the prestigious Cultivate Awards, representing the areas of service, community, and innovation. This year’s recipients are:

Cultivate Service Award: Sue Pannell, Business Banking Associate, Coon Rapids, MN
Cultivate Innovation Award: Mary Skrove, Electronic Banking Manager, Fargo, ND
Cultivate Community Award: Nicole Olson, Retail Manager, Baudette, MN

“Border Bank’s Cultivate Awards program is a way to recognize team members who provide exceptional experiences for their customers, co-workers and communities. It is our team members who bring our culture of service, community, and innovation to life each day and we are thrilled to honor those who make Border Bank a great place to work and do business with these coveted awards,” said Steph Melgaard, Customer & Employee Experience Director.

Pannell, Skrove, and Olson were nominated by their peers for these awards. “We are incredibly appreciative of the exceptional efforts these three individuals have put forth and the positive impact they've made on the communities Border Bank supports. Their recognition is well-earned and truly deserved,” said Kory Shae, CEO.

Pannell is known for her supportive, patient, and professional approach to every task. Her teammates appreciate her attention to detail and her willingness to step in and help out wherever needed, making her a reliable and valuable resource for the team. Skrove is recognized for her commitment, work ethic, and strong attention to detail, consistently demonstrating a dedication to improving and achieving goals. Her professionalism and ability to find solutions with ease make her an essential team member. Olson is admired for her passion, dedication, and strong leadership skills. Her organizational abilities and consistent presence, whether in big or small ways, show her deep commitment to the success of the team and community.

To recognize and celebrate the award winners for their contributions, each were presented a crystal trophy and a cash award to be used to fund an experience or adventure for themselves and their families.

Border Bank was established in 1935, with two branches in Fargo, and nine branches throughout Minnesota, including Coon Rapids, Greenbush, Thief River Falls, Middle River, Badger, Roseau, Baudette, International Falls and Clearbrook. In addition, Border Bank owns Northern Ag, an insurance agency providing crop and livestock insurance, commodity marketing advisory and brokerage services. Border Bank’s mantra is Customer First – Community Focused, which is the cornerstone of the Cultivate Awards Program.